Ready Set Sketch!

I had a great time last weekend with the Ready, Set, Sketch! group. There were 9 participants at different skill levels and all eager to sketch. We started off at the Dry Creek General Store, sketching from across the road. It was a foggy morning but it cleared about 11am.

At noon, we purchased some sandwiches from the Dry Creek Store and headed down the road to Dry Creek Vineyards which is one of the best picnic spots in the area, complete with shade trees, umbrellas, and picnic tables. Following a second sketch of the winery, Phil and I finished the day by tasting some of Dry Creek Vineyard’s wine. I especially liked their Chenin Blanc and Maritage.

Our next “Ready, Set, Sketch!” group outing will be August 10 in the Dry Creek Valley.

Some of the world’s best Zinfandels are grown and produced just west of Healdsburg in the Dry Creek Valley. The area is beautiful and there’ll be no shortage of things to draw. Bring your own drawing supplies and lunch, or purchase something tasty to eat at the Dry Creek Store.

We’ll meet out front of the Dry Creek Store, 3495 Dry Creek Road, just west of Healdsburg city limits on August 10 at 10am. See you there!

Google map: http://goo.gl/maps/CWHLi

About a dozen of us Ready, Set, Sketchers gathered in Healdsburg’s square yesterday to sketch the beautiful plaza. The weather was a perfect 80° with only a slight breeze. An Earth Day celebration filled the grassy area, providing music, atmosphere, and additional drawing opportunities. I chose to sketch the plaza’s iconic clock tower on the northwest corner of the plaza. Later in the afternoon, we rejoined at Healdsburg’s Center for the Arts to share our sketches, techniques, and the day’s experiences. Thanks to all who attended!